Facebook posts helps close Ripley Co. hit-and-run

A tip on Facebook helped the Ripley County Sheriff's Office identify and locate a driver accused of fleeing the scene of a crash Sunday afternoon in Cross Plains, Indiana.

The accident was reported at the intersection of State Route 129 and County Road 900 South around 4 p.m.

Deputies say a female driver of a light tan, older model Jeep Cherokee with tinted windows attempted make a left turn onto C.R. 900 from S.R. 129., left the roadway and turned into a driveway on 129.

In doing so, the suspect crashed head-on into a green Pontiac GT parked in the driveway causing "heavy damage" to the vehicle.

Deputies say the driver of the Cherokee then hit a stop sign with the rear of the vehicle at the intersection as she fled the scene, driving northbound on S.R. 129 towards Versailles.

Based on a Facebook post, an anonymous source contacted authorities regarding the accident. A 17-year-old female driver of Milan, Indiana was identified, as a result.

According to the Ripley County Sheriff's Office, the juvenile left the scene for fear of an Indiana Drivers Permit Violation. Authorities say the teen was released to her guardians and may face potential judgement in the Ripley County Circuit Court.

"Social media, although can be used in the commission of crime, can also be used to catch the criminal, and in this case it worked out perfect as the anonymous source saw a Facebook post and contacted an officer who they trusted. This is a great case of the community and law enforcement coming together for closure," said Ripley County Sheriff Thomas Grills.

Police are asking for the public’s help to find a man accused of attacking his own brother. Greater Baton Rouge Crime Stoppers reported Wesley Hampton, 21, is wanted by the Baton Rouge Police Department.

Police are asking for the public’s help to find a man accused of attacking his own brother. Greater Baton Rouge Crime Stoppers reported Wesley Hampton, 21, is wanted by the Baton Rouge Police Department.